James F. "Smitty" Smith Jr.

James Forrest “Bud" Smith Jr. also known as "Smitty" age 78 of Tipp City passed away Sunday, January 2nd afternoon, surrounded by family. He was born February 24, 1943 in Perrysburg, Ohio. Smitty graduated from Anna High School in 1962. He owned a business in Tipp city called the "Hair Hut'' for 20 years. He also cut hair at Randall Resident of Tipp City. He finally retired from being a barber after over 55 years. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus at Saint John's in Tipp City and volunteered to raise money for Saint Jude’s Bike-a-thon.

Smitty loved to be social and was a pillar in his community. When going on family vacations he could be in a different state, and could still find a familiar face. He loved to talk to people and even had a radio shack where he talked to family and friends across the United States. He loved to fish, watch NASCAR, baseball, and was a big supporter of the University of Dayton. Most of all he loved his family. He loved spending time with his family members, whether it be making breakfast or grilling out, telling stories, and joking around. His sense of humor was infectious! No matter what, he was always there to support his family.

James is survived by his wife of 54 years, Ginny Smith, daughters Sheri Gleis and Lori (Tim) Sandford , sister Patricia (George) Koehl, grandchildren McKenzie Gleis, McKayla (Ben) Weihl, Meghan Gleis, and Marissa Gleis, great grandchildren Carter, KyLeigha, Bristol and sister and adopted granddaughter Ainsley McKamey. Preceding him in death is his grandson Zachary Forrest Gleis, granddaughter Nicole MeiLan Ann Sandford, and parents James and Helen Smith.

A visitation will be held from 5:00-7:00 PM on Monday, January 10, 2022 at FRINGS AND BAYLIFF FUNERAL HOME, 327 W. Main St., Tipp City, Ohio 45371. Mass of Christian Burial will be held the following day, Tuesday, January 11, 2022 at 11:00 AM with a visitation prior to Mass from 10:00-11:00 AM at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, 753 S. Hyatt St., Tipp City, Ohio 45371. Father John Tonkin officiating. In lieu of flowers donations may be made in memory of James to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 01 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.